The first settlement reached in California by emigrant trains using the Emigrant ('Donner') Trail, it was an original part of the 1844 Don Pablo Gutiérrez land grant. It was sold at auction to William Johnson in 1845. In 1849 part of the ranch was set aside as a government reserve -- Camp Far West. In 1866 the town of Wheatland was also laid out on a portion of the grant.

California Registered Historical Landmark No. 493

Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Wheatland Lions Club.
May 30, 1971